Simple carbs versus complex carbs, unrefined cane sugar is more complex, it it burned consistently on a long ride, fructose corn syrup sugar is burned quickly, leading to peaks and troughs of energy stores.

Sports drinks sell themselves with added electrolytes, but it takes 3-6 hours to replenish electrolytes, putting in a drink won't make any difference.

You're just as good with koolaid and cane sugar.